launches an attack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "launches an attack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to military actions, competitive scenarios, or metaphorical situations where someone initiates an aggressive action or strategy. Example: "The general launches an attack at dawn, hoping to catch the enemy off guard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

It launches an attack only when it finds a match.

The Economist

When he launches an attack, it's a hurting kind.

The Guardian - Sport

Nigel Farage launches an attack on Nicola Sturgeon and her SNP party.

Independent

The next day, he launches an attack on "amoral bankers" and their "astronomic bonuses".

The Guardian - Opinion

The immune system launches an attack, causing the joint to get inflamed – red, swollen and sore.

The Guardian

What degree of risk to civilian life is acceptable before the autonomous missile launches an attack?

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

They launched an attack of their own.

The New Yorker

Republicans are squeamish about launching an attack.

The New York Times

Froome prepares to launch an attack.

The Guardian - Sport

In 2015 it launched an attack in southern Niger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Before launching an attack, Alexander reorganized his forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the start of a conflict or competitive event, use "launches an attack" to convey a sense of immediacy and forceful initiation.

Common error

Avoid using "launches an attack" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more appropriate phrases like "starts" or "begins" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launches an attack" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the commencement of an offensive action. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms the phrase's correct and usable status. The examples show the phrase used in various contexts, such as military offensives, political campaigns, and even marketing strategies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "launches an attack" is a versatile expression used to describe the beginning of an offensive action across various contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it carries a neutral to slightly formal tone. When writing, it's crucial to consider the context; while apt for describing military strategies or competitive campaigns, it may be less suitable for informal settings. Alternatives like "initiates an offensive" or "commences an assault" can provide nuanced variations. Being mindful of overuse and tailoring the language to suit the register will enhance clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiates an offensive

Emphasizes the formal commencement of a strategic military or competitive action.

commences an assault

Highlights the beginning of a physical or verbal aggressive action.

mounts a campaign

Suggests a planned and organized effort to achieve a specific objective, often in a political or social context.

undertakes an offensive

Formally denotes starting an offensive action. Usually implies a military or strategic context.

begins an offensive

Indicates the start of an aggressive action, often used in military or sports contexts.

starts an offensive

Simple way to express initiating an aggressive action or campaign.

initiates hostilities

Formally denotes the start of acts of war or conflict.

opens fire

Specifically refers to starting to shoot a weapon.

takes offensive action

Describes the commencement of an offensive but is generally more descriptive and less direct.

strikes

Implies a sudden and forceful attack.

FAQs

What does "launches an attack" mean?

The phrase "launches an attack" means to initiate or begin an aggressive action, either physically or verbally. It implies a forceful start to an offensive.

What can I say instead of "launches an attack"?

You can use alternatives like "initiates an offensive", "commences an assault", or "mounts a campaign" depending on the context.

Is "launches an attack" formal or informal?

The phrase "launches an attack" is generally considered neutral to formal, suitable for news reporting, military contexts, and strategic discussions. It is less appropriate for casual or very informal settings.

How to use "launches an attack" in a sentence?

You can use "launches an attack" to describe the start of any form of offensive. For example: "The enemy "launches an attack" at dawn" or "The company "launches an attack" on its competitor's market share".